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Oneonta's Historic Damaschke Field to Receive Much Needed Facelift

Senator James Seward announces a $1 million state grant to help fund major renovations and improvements at historic Damaschke Field. From left, Oneonta City Mayor Gary Herzig, Oneonta Outlaws owner Gary Laing, Senator Seward.

ONEONTA, 09/06/18 – State Senator James L. Seward (R/C/I/Ref-Oneonta) today joined officials from the City of Oneonta and the Oneonta Outlaws to announce a $1 million state grant to help fund major renovations and improvements at historic Damaschke Field.

“Historic Damaschke Field has been a key component of Oneonta’s sports landscape for more than a century and planned upgrades will ensure the stadium’s future viability,” said Senator Seward. “This major renovation project will preserve the stadium’s historic character while adding amenities that will enhance the fan experience and increase usage for non-baseball activities. The $1 million state grant is an investment that I know will be a homerun for Oneonta.”

City of Oneonta Mayor Gary Herzig said, “Senator Seward is a strong partner in our local economic development and quality of life efforts and this $1 million grant is another prime example. Historic Damaschke Field is an important community and economic asset for our city and Senator Seward’s assistance will allow us to move forward with these upgrades without sacrificing other budgetary needs.”

Oneonta Outlaws owner Gary Laing said, “Family-friendly amenities are key to attracting baseball fans to the ballpark and these upgrades are designed with that in mind. The stadium improvements will also help as we work to establish historic Damaschke Field as a multi-use facility that will draw more people to the park and boost our contribution to the local economy. Senator Seward’s leadership in securing this state grant and helping enhance our regional economy is greatly appreciated.”

The $1 million capital grant secured by Senator Seward through the State and Municipal Facilities Program will be used to demolish the park’s grandstand and rehabilitate the space to provide a safe, family-friendly recreational area.

“Oneonta is on the cusp of a major transformation - $10 million in Downtown Revitalization Initiative (DRI) funding, redevelopment of the railyards, new housing projects – are just a few of the irons in the fire. Upgrading historic Damaschke Field will further enhance Oneonta’s overall appeal to residents and visitors to our region,” Seward concluded.